Smart Home technology is a growing trend throughout various consumer markets. Homeowners are making the transition to “Smart Living,” installing the latest smart fridge, washer & dryer, garage opener, thermostat, even light bulbs and automatic floor cleaning devices like the Roomba. Understandably, we all live busy lives, which make these ease of access gadgets appealing for a myriad of reasons. However, implementing wireless “Smart” gadgets in your household could also attract home invasion attempts.
There are a few key security precautions to keep in mind when installing any Smart Home device, in order to minimize the risk of home hacking or an invasion. Every “Smart” gadget needs wireless access to operate. Hackers and home invaders can capitalize on this by looking for WiFi networks that are using the default settings and passwords which your cable or phone company installed for you. The good news is that you can easily change these settings from the comfort of your home computer.
Change your home Router passwords and configuration settings: Smart Gadgets all require a wireless network access to operate as promised. You can secure your gadget, by securing the home router, which the device is connected to. Change the Router passwords and configuration settings (usually set up with a default password/settings)
To configure your Router, you must first type its default IP address into the browser. (to look up your router’s default IP Address Click HERE or you can look it in the manual it came with, if you have it.) From there you can change the password. And it’s a good idea to change it regularly.
Disable IP directed broadcasts
Check the brand of your router or any documentation it came with. You can disable the directed broadcast by performing a simple search on “How To Disable IP directed broadcast” using a search engine such as Google, Bing or Yahoo.
Block Ping Requests A “ping” request sends a signal to the “pinger” to identify currently active hosts. Hackers use this intelligence gathering, intended for a coordinated future attack. Removing or blocking the ping request is a preventative method to avoid or at the very least make you less likely to become a target.
Changing your home WiFi router’s setting from its default system is equivalent to changing the lock on your front door, after purchasing a new home. You wouldn’t leave the door unlocked while away on vacation, would you? We live in a world where intruders can now invade your home both physically and digitally. By changing the system default settings on a wireless, you are improving your home security by becoming a less likely target. Which in turn means you can enjoy the ease of access of your Smart Home and have peace of mind with these safety measures in place.